Jean Collas
Rugby player and tug of war champion
Competed in rugby and tug of war during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics, representing France in tug of war. Contributed to the development and popularity of rugby in France during the sport's formative years.
Competed in tug of war at the 1900 Summer Olympics
Played rugby for France
Other People Born on July 3rd
George M. Cohan
Songwriter and Broadway performer
Born
July 3rd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1942 83 years ago — 64 years old
An American songwriter, actor, singer, and dancer, recognized as one of the pioneers of musical theater in the United States. Cohan wrote the scores for several prominent Broadway shows in the early 20th century. Hit productions included 'Little Johnny Jones', 'George Washington, Jr.', and 'Yankee Doodle Dandy'. His patriotic songs, such as 'Over There' and 'You're a Grand Old Flag', became anthems during World War I. He was among the first composers to integrate song and dance into the narrative of musicals, shaping the development of the genre.
Continue ReadingHarald Kihle
Norwegian painter and illustrator
Born
July 3rd, 1905 120 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1997 28 years ago — 92 years old
Focused on painting and illustration throughout a prolific career, contributions included various landscapes and illustrations that reflected Norwegian culture. Kihle's work showcased the natural beauty of Norway, integrating elements of folk traditions and modernist styles. His artistic approach often involved vibrant colors and intricate details, adding depth to both rural and urban scenes. Engaged in numerous exhibitions, Kihle's artwork gained recognition for its technical skill and emotional resonance, contributing to the visual arts community in Norway.
Continue ReadingLászló Kovács
Hungarian diplomat, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Born
July 3rd, 1939 86 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 2007 18 years ago — 68 years old
Held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs in Hungary, contributing to the country's diplomatic efforts during a transformative period in Eastern Europe. Played a significant role in Hungary's foreign policy after the end of the Cold War, focusing on European integration and fostering relations with Western countries. Engaged in discussions that shaped Hungary's approach towards NATO and the European Union membership.
Continue ReadingJudith Durham
Folk-pop singer-songwriter from Australia
Born
July 3rd, 1943 82 years ago
Died
August 5th, 2022 3 years ago — 79 years old
A prominent Australian folk-pop singer-songwriter, achieved fame as the lead singer of The Seekers. The group gained international recognition in the 1960s with hits such as 'I'll Never Find Another You' and 'Georgy Girl.' Their harmonious blend of folk and pop music earned them a significant place in the music history. After parting ways with The Seekers, pursued a successful solo career, releasing multiple albums and performing widely. Recognized for contributions to music and culture, Durham was awarded various honors throughout her life.
Continue ReadingWade Belak
Ice hockey player and enforcer
Born
July 3rd, 1976 49 years ago
Died
August 31st, 2011 14 years ago — 35 years old
Played in the National Hockey League (NHL) as an enforcer. Spent time with several teams, including the Colorado Avalanche, Nashville Predators, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Florida Panthers. Known for physical play and toughness on the ice. Appeared in over 500 NHL games throughout a career spanning over a decade. Contributed to team dynamics with a strong presence, often tasked with protecting star players and engaging in fights when necessary.
Continue ReadingJacobus Gallus
Slovenian composer of Renaissance music
Born
July 3rd, 1550 475 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1591 434 years ago — 41 years old
Born in 1550, this Slovenian composer contributed significantly to the development of polyphonic music during the Renaissance. His works primarily consist of sacred choral music, influencing musical styles in Central Europe. He spent a significant part of his career in Vienna and was associated with the Court Chapel. His compositions were widely performed in choral settings. The composer also published several volumes of motets and songs, which were important in establishing the musical practices of his time.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on December 30th
Mary Brian
American actress from silent films
Born
February 17th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2002 22 years ago — 96 years old
Began a career in silent films in the 1920s, transitioning to talkies with notable performances. Starred in films such as 'The Family Secret' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Represented a significant figure during the silent film era and the shift to sound films in Hollywood. Continued to perform in various film and television roles through the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingAlfred North Whitehead
Mathematician and philosopher of science
Born
February 15th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1947 77 years ago — 86 years old
Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy. Co-authored the seminal work 'Principia Mathematica' with Bertrand Russell, which laid foundational aspects of mathematical logic. Developed process philosophy, emphasizing the processual nature of reality and the interconnectivity of all entities. Served in various academic roles, including at Harvard University, influencing future generations of scholars.
Continue ReadingRomain Rolland
French author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 29th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1944 80 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent literary figure, contributed significantly to literature through works that encompass plays, novels, and essays. Achieved widespread recognition for the novel 'Jean-Christophe', which depicted the life of a composer in a tumultuous era. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1915 for writings that expressed humanism and a belief in the goodness of humanity amid the backdrop of World War I. Engaged in political and social issues through literature and supported various causes including peace.
Continue ReadingJakob Fugger
German banker and merchant
Born
March 6th, 1459 566 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1525 499 years ago — 66 years old
Fugger was a prominent German merchant and banker during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. He played a crucial role in the financial landscape of Europe, particularly in the financing of the Habsburgs. Originally based in Augsburg, Fugger established a vast trading empire that included textiles, spices, and precious metals. He created the Fugger Bank, which became a cornerstone of European banking. His wealth enabled him to influence politics and economics significantly, making him a key figure in the power dynamics of the time.
Continue ReadingMichel Plasse
Canadian ice hockey goaltender
Born
June 1st, 1948 77 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2006 18 years ago — 58 years old
An ice hockey goaltender played in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily for the St. Louis Blues during the 1970s. His professional career began in the late 1960s, and he played a significant role in the league during his tenure. Plasse participated in over 100 NHL games, showcasing his skills in the net and contributing to his team's efforts. He also played in various minor leagues, where he continued to develop his abilities and gained further experience in the sport, leading to his selection for the NHL.
Continue ReadingLuise Rainer
German-English actress with Academy Awards
Born
January 12th, 1910 115 years ago
Died
December 30th, 2014 10 years ago — 104 years old
Born in Germany, a celebrated actress gained prominence in the 1930s. Rainer starred in films such as 'The Great Ziegfeld' and 'The Good Earth'. Her performances earned her critical acclaim and two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actress, making her the first to achieve this feat. After a successful early career in Hollywood, she relocated to Europe, where she continued to act in various productions. Rainer's contributions to cinema during her peak years solidified her legacy in film history.
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